This is the fairytale village of old stone set within a woodland cloak

Just an hour’s drive from Newcastle brings you to this charming village, a place built completely from ancient stone.

Sitting beneath what Visit Northumberland describes as a woodland cloak in a fairytale setting, it is a picture perfect village on the border of County Durham and Northumberland, and is known as one of the most beautiful spots in the Northeast.

The village was created using stone from Blanchland Abbey, which dates back to 1165, and its long history can be felt in every wall.

Photo © Uncredited (cc-by-sa/2.0)

Its cobbled streets are lined with old buildings that hold cosy cafes, bakeries and little shops, all untouched by modern life.

Blanchland is surrounded by rolling fells, giving breathtaking views thanks to its closeness to the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Even so, many people visit mainly to explore its historic abbey, founded by Walter de Bolbec and once visited by King Edward III.

One TripAdvisor review said: “It’s right in the centre of the medieval village of Blanchland; no entry costs, just go in and wander at your own pace. It really is a lovely old abbey; nearby tea rooms and gift shops make it well worth a visit.”

Another visitor called it a simply lovely place, adding: “Whenever we are in the area, we drive to Blanchland to walk around the pretty stone village and see this lovely church.

Photo © Colin Park (cc-by-sa/2.0)

The church was once part of a much larger abbey, and thinking about its history is quite something.”

Even though only 135 people lived there at the time of the 2011 census, the village still attracts visitors from all over the country who want to enjoy its unique charm.

Many choose to stop at the Lord Crewe Arms Hotel, one of the oldest inns in Britain, with roots going back to the 12th century.

The hotel keeps its traditional style, with wooden beams, stone walls and warm fireplaces. One recent visitor wrote: “After a few days touring Northumberland, we saved the best hotel till last, and it did not disappoint.”

Another guest said: “We loved everything about this hotel. The beautiful setting, the amazing old building, the lovely room, the great bar, the friendly and helpful staff. Brilliant.”

Remember - LeaveNoTrace!

As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!

Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.

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